Earth’s southernmost continent and the frozen landmass surrounding the South Pole, Antarctica is among the most remote tourist destinations in the world.
With no permanent population due to the extreme cold that envelops the area for half of the year, the only way to experience the continent as a traveler not on an official scientific expedition is by cruise.
The vast majority of Antarctica cruises leave from the southernmost city of Ushuaia in Argentina, while Punta Arenas and Puerto Williams in Chile are also gateways for cruise lines offering Antarctica tours.
The Cormorant at 55 South opens in Chile’s Puerto Williams October 2026
A small port city on the northern coast of Navarino Island in the extreme south of Chile, Puerto Williams is the departure point for luxury Royal Caribbean brand Silversea Cruises.
Ships including Silver Wind, Silver Cloud, and Silver Endeavour all depart for tours of Antarctica during the October-to-March period and for the regional Chilean fjords during the rest of the year.
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As part of efforts to develop the remote port city for tourists on Antarctica cruises who want to spend some extra days in the area, Silversea and the local Pivcevic family have confirmed that the new 150-room The Cormorant at 55 South will open in October 2026, according to UPI.
Descendants of the late Domingo Andrés Pivcevic run the Aerovías DAP Chilean airline group and a portfolio of hotel and local infrastructure developments in Patagonia. The “55 South” refers to the 55th parallel, an imaginary circle of latitude that cuts through the extreme southern tip of South America and passes through Tierra del Fuego.
The cormorant, meanwhile, is a dark waterbird native to the region and known to thrive in extreme environments.
The Cormorant at 55 South
“Designed to reflect the spirit of this extraordinary destination”: Silversea on new 55 South hotel
The Cormorant at 55 South’s 150 rooms were designed to offer views of either the nearby forest or the Beagle Channel, from which travelers who have made it that far south will begin their Antarctica journey. The accommodations, featuring elements of wood and nature, offer a rugged chic look.
The property will also center around a fireplace lounge where visitors can cozy up around a copper-hooded hearth and a number of restaurants, bars, and relaxation spaces that all tap into the striking Patagonian landscape.
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The entire property has been envisioned as a high-end connector to the Silversea cruises; Antarctica cruises are notoriously pricey due to the resources needed to navigate one of the world’s most remote regions.
The Antarctica Fly Cruise itineraries for 2027 will include a one-night stay at The Cormorant before guests go on to the nearby King George Island for embarkation.
“This unique property will offer our guests the same hallmark comfort and personalized service they expect while on board our ships and will immerse them in the rich culture, traditions, and natural beauty of the region,” Silversea President Bert Hernandez said in a statement, as reported by Luxury Travel Advisor.
“The interior spaces are thoughtfully designed to reflect the spirit of this extraordinary destination.”
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